Turkey, with its historical texture, cultural, and natural beauties, is one of the most remarkable countries in the world. It's impossible to describe all the cities worth visiting in Turkey in a single article. However, it's possible to compile the top 10 cities you must see to get to know Turkey. These cities, located in different regions of Turkey, stand out with their distinctive features. Each city on the list offers its unique atmosphere, architecture, food, and culture. Here are the 10 cities you must see in Turkey!

Istanbul

Acting as a bridge between two continents, Istanbul is known as Turkey's largest and most populous city. This city, which connects the continents of Asia and Europe, holds significant importance in many respects. Throughout history, it has been home to many civilizations, and therefore, possesses a rich cultural heritage.
Key places to visit in Istanbul include Hagia Sophia, Topkapı Palace, Sultanahmet Mosque, Grand Bazaar, Bosphorus Bridge, Dolmabahçe Palace, and the Galata Tower. Each of these structures is emblematic of Istanbul. Moreover, Istanbul's delicious foods, colorful streets, and vibrant nightlife offer unforgettable experiences to its visitors.

İzmir

Known as the pearl of the Aegean, İzmir is recognized as the third-largest city in Turkey. Apart from being a modern city, İzmir has been an important port and trading center since ancient times. The most famous place to visit in İzmir is the ancient city of Ephesus. In Ephesus, one can see many historical relics from the Roman period. This is a major reason why İzmir is among the cities to visit in Turkey.
Other significant spots include the Library of Celsus, Temple of Artemis, Grand Theater, and the Temple of Hadrian. Additionally, the Clock Tower, Kemeraltı Bazaar, Konak Square, Alsancak, and Kordon are also special points of the city. The most renowned dishes you can taste in İzmir include boyoz, kumru, gevrek, and lokma.

Antalya

One of the most striking points of the Mediterranean is undoubtedly Antalya. The city is also one of Turkey's most popular tourist cities. Antalya stands out for both its natural beauties and historical riches. Many essential historical structures are among the places to visit in the region. Düden Waterfalls, Konyaaltı Beach, Kaleiçi, Yivli Minaret Mosque, Aspendos Theatre, and the ancient city of Perge are prime spots.
In each of these structures, one can encounter remnants of natural and cultural heritage. Among the famous dishes you can taste in Antalya are piyaz, tandır kebab, hibeş, and serpme börek.

Mardin

Located in the Southeastern Anatolia Region, Mardin is one of Turkey's oldest cities with a distinct atmosphere. With its stone houses and narrow streets, the city visually resembles an open-air museum. There are numerous important spots to visit in Mardin. Ulu Mosque, Kasımiye Madrasa, Deyrülzafaran Monastery, Mardin Museum, and Zinciriye Madrasa are among the most significant. Popular dishes to try in Mardin include rib stuffing (kaburga dolması), kibbeh, sembusek, and içli köfte (stuffed meatballs).

Şanlıurfa

Located adjacent to Mardin, Şanlıurfa can be counted among the cities to visit in Turkey. The city stands out with its historical and mystical texture. Şanlıurfa is also known as the city of prophets. Among the places to visit in the city are Balıklıgöl (Fish Lake), Halil-ür Rahman Mosque, Urfa Castle, Harran Plain, and Göbeklitepe. Each of these places holds historical and religious significance. Notable local flavors of Şanlıurfa include lahmacun (Turkish pizza), liver kebab, çiğ köfte (raw meatball), and sıraç.

Denizli

Located in the Aegean Region, Denizli is home to one of the most beautiful natural wonders of Turkey. The most famous site in the city is Pamukkale. Pamukkale looks like a white paradise, formed by terraces of carbonate minerals. In Pamukkale, one can see both natural beauties and historical riches. Adjacent to Pamukkale, in the ancient city of Hierapolis, you can see many artifacts from the Roman period. Among them are the Necropolis, Theatre, Agora, and Sacred Area. Famous dishes of Denizli include keşkek (a traditional dish made of wheat and meat), çöp şiş (skewered meat), tarhana soup (fermented grain soup), and höşmerim (a type of dessert).

Trabzon

Another city to be visited in Turkey is Trabzon. Located in the Black Sea Region, Trabzon is one of the greenest cities in the country. The city can be preferred for both its natural beauties and cultural richness. Among the places to visit in Trabzon are historical and natural heritages such as Sümela Monastery, Uzungöl, Atatürk Mansion, Trabzon Castle, and Hagia Sophia Museum. Delicious dishes of Trabzon include anchovies, kuymak (a type of polenta with cheese), collard greens soup, and Laz pastry.

Muğla

Located in the Aegean Region, Muğla occupies an important place among the cities to be visited in Turkey. In Muğla, places like Bodrum, Marmaris, Fethiye, Datça, and Dalyan are favorites of both domestic and foreign tourists. The city offers various historical attractions. Bodrum Castle, Ölüdeniz, Kaunos Ancient City, Saklıkent Canyon, and Akyaka Beach are among the most preferred places. The region's famous dishes include keşkek (a traditional dish made of wheat and meat), mantı (Turkish dumplings), çökertme kebab, and lokma (sweet dough balls fried and soaked in syrup).

Adıyaman

Adıyaman has been home to some of Turkey's oldest civilizations. Located in the Southeastern Anatolia Region, the city can be listed among the cities to be visited in Turkey. The most important and must-visit place in Adıyaman is Mount Nemrut. On Mount Nemrut, there are colossal statues and monuments belonging to the Kingdom of Commagene. The view from Mount Nemrut, especially during sunrise and sunset, is magnificent.

Çanakkale

Çanakkale serves as a bridge between Turkey's Marmara and Aegean regions. It is a city known for its historical heritage and is also a peninsula. Among the notable places to visit in Çanakkale are the Gallipoli Peninsula, the ancient city of Troy, Bozcaada and Gökçeada Islands, Çimenlik Castle, and the ancient city of Assos. When visiting, don't miss out on trying the famous local dishes such as seafood, olive oil-based dishes, and organic products.